Children and pets are precious cargo, and as record-breaking heat waves spread throughout the U.S., they can be in danger of heat stroke if you leave them alone in a car. Alabama firefighters interviewed by WAFF in Huntsville, AL, urged people to never do what this dog owner did and cautioned that temperatures inside cars can quickly reach upwards of 125 degrees, a "very serious situation."
If the keys are accidentally locked in the car, emergency officials and other law enforcement personnel will assist in opening the vehicle. However, if officials are not available or if the situation becomes an emergency, firefighters say that you should make sure to break into the car safely.
The best action is using a rock or other heavy material to break the glass. One study recommended aiming for the edge of the windows, as the glass is strongest at the center. The front drivers-side window is generally the least expensive to replace. If you do have to break a car window, don't worry about cutting yourself; the glass is designed to crumble instead of shatter.
Leaving children in vehicles is illegal in many states, so legal repercussions may exist even if no harm is done to the child. But with invaluable cargo, why risk it?
